REVIEW: Decware Select Zen CSP2 Tube Headphone Amp - Page 2

Ah, brilliant.

It's definitely on my shortlist.

Any chance we can see some internal shots?

I totally understand

I just received a new Taboo, too. I have had it for just 11 days. I am inclined to eventually add a CSP2 to my Taboo.

I own the predecessor of this unit, the MLB amplifier and I use it in my office. From what I have read, the MLB is very close to the CSP2 in performance, etc. It uses the same 6N1P/5Y3 tube combination and uses an expensive English Sowter transformer. It is very well made and inspired confidence.

DECWARE is very open about all their gear. They are not hiding anything from anybody. On their forums you can read about problems folks have had as well as what the majority of posters over there have to say; that they are deeply, madly satisfied with their equipment.

You can call with a question any time and the people on the other end are always helpful; what is more, they love audio.

Skylab,

Try a 6106 as the rectifier in your CSP2. The "Red Bank" tube sounds very good and it's TOUGH. Like the 6087/5Y3WGTB, the 6106 is a 5Y3 with a cathode sleeve. Bendix developed the type for use in (sic) Nike anti-aircraft guided missiles.

Chinese and Russian tubes purported to be 5U4Gs can be disappointing. They are known to arc over, when used in combination with caps. and voltages that are well within published limits. If 5U4s hold your interest, I suggest you acquire a NOS, US made, 5U4GB. Sorry, you don't get the "sexy" ST envelope, but you do get the crucial electrical and sonic performance.

Shipping notification received! Should be here within the next week. It took one month from ordering till they finished it. And that was exactly what they told me. I have started looking for tubes on ebay. Are there any who can recommend a few trustworthy ebay dealers who ships 6DJ8 or its equivavelent worldwide?

Thank you Skylab! I will do that!

Today it was delivered to my door. I had to pay 230 dollars in customs charge, so the total inclusive shipping is 1143 dollars. I have just tried it for two hours with the original tubes; 1 Ruby 5U4GC and three Russian 6N1P. Even with this tubes it beats my Two modified Darkvoice 336i and graham Slee Solo hands down! My MD2000 Deluxe, markl modded Denon D2000, really shines! This CSP2 together with the markl modded Denons are the two audio buys ever that have made me most satisfied! Will write more later.

Thank you Skylab! I have allready bought 3 NOS Sylvania 6DJ8 tubes, 2 NOS 5U4GB JAN Philips and 2 5U4GB Sylvania NOS.